Good ideas for Halloween costumes

Best Halloween costume tips

"What to be this Halloween?" For some, the answer to this question is an all-year quest.

My son is always on the look out for good ideas for Halloween costumes. Before he has even digested this year's Halloween treats he is recounting all the costumes he saw and deciding if any would be good for next year.

Choosing the right Halloween costume involves a multi-step decision process with many things to consider.

Where

First order of business is to decide where you need to wear your costume.

Out Trick-or-Treating
Good ideas for Halloween costumes to be worn out trick-or-treating are to consider a Halloween costume you can add layers to in case the weather is cold. Make sure any masks or head pieces allow for a clear view of the sidewalk and road. Nothing ruins a Halloween night faster than a bad fall or worse yet a run in with a car. Ouch! Consider adding reflective tape to costumes especially if they are dark in color. And always carry a flash light to help make you visible to on-coming traffic.

To a Party
Make sure you can move around comfortably in your Halloween costume or that it is easily removed. You'll want to be comfortable to socialize with your friends. As most parties have food and drink you'll want to make sure your mask or head piece won't keep you from enjoying the treats. Keep in mind that Halloween costumes with multiple props can be annoying to keep track of in a crowd. Try to find a costume that will keep your hands free to play games and eat treats.

To School or in a Parade
Most of these situations have some restrictions like no toy weapons or no masks for safety. Consider your Halloween costume without those props. Does your costume still make sense? Other good ideas for Halloween costumes in this circumstance are to know if the event will be inside or out. Layer up if it is outside and keep it cool if inside. And to know if you will be in costume all day or change into it. If changing into it make sure all pieces are labeled with your name and it is easy to get into.

The Look

What is the look and feel you are going for?

Cute and cuddly - maybe be a puppy or a cutie pie witch

Scary - maybe be the Grim Reaper or a Vampire with bloody teeth

Funny - maybe be a Clown, a Toilet or a Whoopie Cushion

Sophisticated - maybe dress as a Glam Witch or a doctor

Sporty - maybe suit up as a Football Player or a Tennis Star

Unique - try making a homemade costume designed to spoof a recent media event or fashion trend - do remember to keep it in good taste - think clever and/or funny, not cruel and tasteless

Best Halloween costume tips

Where

The Look

Themes

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